| from the album "Cool Change" GMA Records Directed by Louie Ignacio Is it really over, Jaya? Over, now that you've managed to create one of your best work to date? Now that your rich, intense vocals sound better than before? Well, not quite. It's ironic really for the carrier single off Jaya's latest album to be titled "Is It Over?" since, in the first place, it doesn't really signal an end; in fact, it does the exact opposite in tremendous fashion. The last time listeners heard soul sister Jaya was back in 2005 with the thematic "Fall In Love Again." Two years later, she is back with a vengeance and all guns blazing. Her ninth album "Cool Change" signifies the many changes she has undergone in the past years. A new look, a new sound, a new label. These are some of the changes visible after giving the 55-minute long CD a spin. And what glorious period it was. From start to finish, Jaya delivers fitting sensuous vocals at precise moments all throughout. Although it is a remake album, "Cool Change" appears to be Jaya's strongest record yet, one that has stacks of variety and texture. It also stands as a testimonial of industry experience and wisdom in that she doesn't try too hard pulling off vintage soul; instead she delights in belting out these classic confections in her own sweet style. Choice cut and first single "Is It Over?" drips with dual emotions of the ends and beginnings of a relationship. Here, Jaya funnels her vocal abilities to a bare minimum, letting it flow ... |
